Location

Way of Saint James, the first European Cultural Route and World Heritage Site.
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Description

This sporting event has been held since 1930. It is full of music and colour, and has become one of the most important dates on the international canoeing calendar.

Every year, on the first Saturday in August, canoeists from all over the world come to Asturias to take part in the Sella River race. In order to participate you must have a valid competition license. More than one thousand canoes battle it out to be first home over the 20-kilometre course on the Sella River, which runs from the village of Arriondas to the finish line in Ribadesella. On the shore, thousands of spectators enjoy themselves, shouting and encouraging the participants.

That day, first thing in the morning, the river train sets out from Oviedo and Ribadesella packed with people to see the start. At 11 o’clock, while the canoeists get ready on the river, colourful crowds of people in fancy dress make their way through the streets of Arriondas to watch the race, either on foot or on board all kinds of strange vehicles. At 12, the traditional verses to mark the start are read out and the competition is officially underway, with a stampede of canoes towards the river and the excited shouts of the spectators. On the way, the river train and the unusual motor cavalcade accompany the competitors in a joyful atmosphere.

Once at the finish line, the party transfers to the Campos de Ova, where trophies are awarded to the winners in each category and there is a huge picnic. There is food, cider, song, dance… When night comes the fun continues in Ribadesella until the early hours, with its terrace bars and open-air parties.

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